It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them the fundamental questions about who they are and how they became the person they are today. Understanding and empathy are essential building blocks for a better, more compassionate world. We’re incredibly fortunate to be able to ask these questions each week through our interview series. Below you’ll find inspiring interviews from in and around Ohio.
Dereck Malone
My journey started 12 years ago as a gamer. I streamed on a website called Twitch. I was a full time sponsored call of duty streamer for 7 and a half years. During covid I was vice president of a gaming website company and once covid released its restrictions in Ohio my girlfriend took me out on date night once a week. I seen first hand how many people were struggling, the owners trying to get people back inside dining, down to the servers who weren’t making any money. Shortly after that I thought why not try food reviews and help out these small mom and pop shops! Fast forward 4 years later I have collectively 2 million followers on all social media platforms Read more>>
Norelis De Jesus-Pomales
In 2018, I decided to finish my bachelor’s degree. I already had an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Science of Police, and in 2022, I finished my bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Homeland Security. Afterward, I began my master’s degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, which I completed in December 2024. I’m very proud of myself because, despite being a single mother, having a full-time job, and being a leader in my church, I was able to complete my studies. Within the community, I was recognized by the Cohort of 2023 as one of the 100 most-known or influential Latinx people in Cleveland, thanks to Marcia Moreno. Read more>>
Fallon Schwab-Davis
When I got accepted into the University of Mount Union the first thing that caught my eye was the radio station. And that’s honestly when it all started! I had my own 2 hour radio show from 6-8pm every Tuesday/Thursday. I found an appreciate for expression through sound and became ore confident with putting my voice out there. Then one day they sent me out on the field to do a live show INFRONT OF PEOPLE! That was a game changer… IT WAS AWESOME. Looking out and feeling the energy you are creating through music and your creative song choices it became my fuel almost. So then i obsessed over researching mixes and stage performance. I learned how much pro DJs could make and they looked so happy hype doing what they do and I was sold! Read more>>
Amber Stephenson
At this point, I didn’t know what I wanted to do, I just knew I wanted to be a part of it. Learning to make food that would fill our bellies and fuel our bodies, rather than fill our bellies and harm our health became my mission. As I was learning, I was sharing. I had people asking me to make things they were missing as they were trying to eat healthily or finding out that their children were affected by red dye and other ingredients. Read more>>
Vicki Deisner
The need for a statewide organization to address animal welfare is the missing link to moving animal welfare forward in Ohio. The animal welfare movement is a young movement in comparison to other social welfare efforts. For example, the environmental movement was launched in the 1970s on a national level, but it wasn’t until state and local environmental organizations were created in the 1980s/1990s that the movement created real change on the ground. These local organizations had the ability to identify state-specific needs and network diverse parties of interest into a consolidated voice with shared goals, enabling the environmental movement to develop consensus-based solutions. Read more>>
Cecily Dipold
I specialize in creating beauty and lifestyle content on social media, where I share tips, trends, and personal experiences with my audience. Whether it’s makeup tutorials, skincare routines, or lifestyle advice, I’m passionate about inspiring others to feel confident and empowered in their daily lives. In addition to my content creation, I also model on the side, which allows me to bring a creative and unique perspective to my work. Read more>>
Jessica Clark
After realizing I had tripled my sales in just a couple of years as an Independent stylist, I dove deeper into digital marketing and design. I took on a new form of client and ran with new ideas, helping to facilitate their beauty brands and marketing strategies. This chapter provided new learning pathways, new challenges and a deeper calling. In 2024, I was ready for more as a salon brand. I had been patiently waiting for that “What’s next” for five years; and right on time, the universe answered. Read more>>
Christopher Huffman
It’s refreshing know that i’m being paid well by insurance carriers all while helping families win financially. literacy. I now speak quarterly at local colleges around Cincinnati on topics ranging from Leadership, Financial literacy and How to be an effective leader. What I love most is educating families on the 4 homes of money, the three tax buckets, the three ways money grows and how to properly structure your financial home. Each Tuesday at 7pm and Saturday at 10am I host money and wealth seminars to help change the financial narrative in our community. Read more>>
Samantha Wadlington Megan Barnhart
We went to a local show called the Wool Gathering in Yellow Springs and fell in love with the people as well as the various colors. We have enjoyed fiber crafts but we immediately were like “we could do this, can we do this?! “Within a month we purchased equipment and were absolutely doing it….BADLY….but we learned through those trials and errors as well as fell in love with the ebb and flow of color on the yarn. We continue for this reason as well as the people. We like connecting with people through the fiber arts. It’s a wonderful community. Read more>>
Kim Powers
I don’t think entrepreneurship is ever a smooth road. The fashion industry is a difficult one in the sense that clothing and dressing is a very vulnerable experience for women. There is a lot of self worth and identity wrapped up in how we choose to dress our bodies. It has been my greatest honor to help women dress in ways that build their self worth but it has also been a learning curve to understand how women relate to their bodies and how I can choose clothing pieces that empower them. I have learned so much over 8.5 years and I think I am much better now at stocking the boutique and working with women than when I started this business. Read more>>
Jalyn Hill
It’s funny because I went to Alabama A&M and graduated in 2021. Not a lot of people from the Midwest (excluding Chicago) went there, so I always got the question, “What is there to do in Cincinnati?” A lot of those same people still follow me today, and they’re always shocked by what the city has to offer. So, I get to show people from out of town what’s here, and I also get to show locals what’s in their own backyard. Read more>>
Derek Burtch
Since our first exchange that finished in May 2017, we have been working with teachers across Central Ohio to engage their students in discourse across difference, challenging the segregative boundaries of school districts so students can engage in collaborative learning and dreaming together. Our work is teacher-created, teacher and student-centered, and continues to be directly impactful in classrooms and in the Central Ohio metro area at-large. This year we are facilitating 22 exchanges across 44 classrooms in Central Ohio. With over 1,000 student participating, this is our biggest year yet. Read more>>
Quentin Melnick
If it were easy, everyone would do it. Our biggest challenge was finding a sound the is unique to us, yet doesn’t send the audience packing. Other than that, the only other challenges we’ve faced were purely organizational. All of us participate in other musical projects on top of full time work. Nobody teaches you how to be an independent artist. Read more>>
Kalanithi
My Academy has expanded to serve diverse communities, providing opportunities for young minds to develop critical thinking, discipline, and strategic skills. I started initiatives like Chess for Cure, not only to promote chess among female players but also raise awareness of women’s health, partnering with leading research institutions to support gynecologic oncology research and treatment. Read more>>
Ashley Tyler
As I mentioned before, I’m still very new to this whole world and even calling myself a creative or content creator seems like I’m lying to all of you. But I am a fashion and lifestyle content creator. I realized somewhere over the last few years I have completely lost myself and wanted to not only rediscover myself but also learn new things about myself and I’m hoping to also inspire others who may have lost themselves to join the journey with me. Read more>>
Karen Denise
My journey began with personal challenges in 2007 and 2016, which led me to explore skincare as a hobby. As I experimented with natural ingredients, I discovered not only their effectiveness but also a deep passion for creating products that offered real alternatives for those seeking safer solutions. What started as a personal pursuit soon evolved into something greater, and in 2017, I transformed my hobby into a thriving business. Since then, I have meticulously crafted over 200 unique products, each infused with botanical extracts and natural fragrances, designed to nourish the skin and enhance well-being. Read more>>
Cheyla Robinson
We ended up moving back to Cleveland, unexpectedly. At this point, I was pregnant again with my second son, and I needed income quick, to figure things out so I went back to work, however I had this external calling for me to quit my job and get back to what it is that I love. I trusted that calling and here I am, back healing my community through my food. We not only offer health and nutrition, we offer all the same great tastes and flavors so you aren’t missing the unhealthy food as much. I only extend to move forward from here and I am striving to have my own health food restaurant in the very near future, with time, consistency and dedication. Read more>>
Lee McKinnon
I grew up surrounded by music—it was always a part of my life. My dad used to joke, “Why do you know every song playing? You don’t stop singing!” Music was just in me. At six, I got my first instrument—a guitar—and I loved it. I played with my older sister, and over time, I explored drums and pianos too. I wasn’t great at drums and eventually put the guitar down, but in 5th grade, I picked up the saxophone. That was the instrument that stuck, and I played in school bands all the way through my junior year. Read more>>
Alianna Pendergrass
I met my previous and he introduced me to his home studio. I watched him record, mix, and master for a year until I started to take things seriously. Since then, I have worked with artists in the Lo-fi scene on different songs and projects. From being just a sample to making my own songs, I still enjoy the process. Ideas flow out of me to create these pieces of art and I couldn’t want more than to help people. Read more>>
Kate Dulac
Along with my tech career and content, I’m also the founder of Divine by Kate, my own jewelry business. I design pieces that reflect my personal style and the joy I find in creativity. It’s been an exciting venture that allows me to express myself in a completely different way, and it’s been rewarding to see it grow. Read more>>
Olivia Kreke
When our brother-in-law upgraded his coffee roaster, he let Andrew borrow his small 4oz coffee roaster to start learning how to roast our own beans. Andrew dove into research on roasting and started slowly improving with each roast until we were drinking delicious coffee with every cup. At the same time, I felt God calling me to step back from my corporate job and stay home with our kids. After a lot of prayer, we decided to do it… launch our own small batch coffee roasting business in October 2024 to share our love of coffee and Jesus to the community. Read more>>https://voyageohio.com/interview/meet-olivia-kreke-of-firm-foundation-coffee-roasters
Farmer Lee Jones
Four decades ago, our farm, nestled on Lake Erie in rural Ohio, thrived under the visionary patriarch, Bob Jones, Sr. His pioneering spirit and commitment to innovation transformed soil that was once lake bottom into rich farmland. When unexpected circumstances forced our family to rebuild, a chance encounter led Farmer Lee Jones to a chef with a custom request, sparking a transformative shift. The farm evolved into a culinary haven, enticing chefs with microgreens, heirloom vegetables, and edible flowers, embracing sustainable farming and prioritizing quality over quantity. Adapting to the pandemic, we ventured into home delivery, sustaining our commitment to quality, regenerative agriculture. Read more>>
Torrance Sebastian
I co started an original band called, Late Night Drive and am in a 90’s Cover band that plays shows all over Ohio and Pittsbugh. I am also working on my own original music as a signed artist at The Vault Recording Studio. I will be releasing my own music into the world soon!! The newest development would be the Management company I started with my business partner Kameron Meyers. Our mission is to book local talent and support the Youngstown Music scene. I got to where I am today because of the amazing family, friends and mentors I’ve had along the way. Read more>>
Ronald Keener
My youngest sister came over day after day to get me up out of bed to do crafts with her but couldn’t get me to respond hardly, so finally after about 2 months of her coming over and trying to get me up out bed and my depression, just to shut her up and leave me alone, I got up & went & done a day of crafting with my sister, I believe it was at that point in my life other than my children and my grandchildren, I found a purpose to live again(figure of speaking). Read more>>
Richard Esipisu
t has not always been a smooth journey, and struggle has been a facet of my life since its inception. I have dealt with heavy metal poisoning as a child, constant upheaval with new homes, new schools and new countries. The adjustment each time has had its toll both mentally and physically. I took it on the chin though and I adjust quickly although it is never easy. For a significant part of my life I have been away from home or studying in a different country to my family. It is pretty daunting establishing yourself as a man and as a person with limited to no guidance simply due to distance. I think that was a great struggle for me and phone calls can only do so much. Becoming a man and a leader and someone who can take steps and risks on my own has been my greatest challenge and greatest triumph Read more>>
Dr. Diane Linston
I noticed a lot of emerging designers looking for a manufacturing company to help Manufacture their clothing line. I realized this was a Nitch. This is how I started my own clothing Manufacturing company. Most emerging fashion designers could not afford to work with a large Manufacturing company. Read more>>
Kate Berk
During my junior and senior years of high school, I danced as a trainee with Richmond Ballet. Because I was the weakest dancer in the room, I learned from every one of the talented women around me. I was then accepted to Butler University on both dance and academic scholarships. While I valued my college experience on many levels (I even met my now husband there!), I knew a dance career was short, so I wanted to start my professional career as early as possible. I worked diligently to graduate in three years so I could dive into the industry ASAP. Read more>>
Vera Howard
The love for filmmaking started in elementary school with performing on stage. My love for acting, transformed into a love for writing and that grew into a love for storytelling which evolved into camera work to record the stories that I wanted to tell. Read more>>
Spencer Gentry
We are not your typical doctors office. We want you to come into our office and feel like you’re known there and not just another patient. We have drinks and snacks and sports on the television. We want it to feel like you’ve been here before and want to come back. We offer concierge medicine, none of this in and out, doctor doesn’t listen to your concerns kind of thing. With our service, you have access to our provider whenever you might need it. We are here to listen and help you. Read more>>
Franco Weiler
I’m grateful to the workers at that Taco Bell location for seeing the value in the show. It’s soul-healing to see the community coming together and supporting this event, from local artists to local businesses, all aiding to provide a priceless experience for free. The show has been featured on popular media outlets, getting viral traction on the internet boosting the artists and sponsors. With its roots in the DIY music scene, this Cleveland Taco Bell punk show highlights the incredible talent thriving in the local community. I hope it spreads the positive inspiration that led me here. Read more>>
Meghan Brewster
In Columbus, I had the amazing opportunity to teach adaptive dance classes at Dublin Dance Centre, along with other dance classes, and work as a therapy aide at a physical therapy clinic while applying to OT programs. Not to mention also dancing for Columbus Modern Dance Company! The Ohio State University was at the top of my list, and I got in and accepted!! I then took on the role of directing the adaptive dance program and began my OT program. It was a lot to take on, but it was full of things I loved. I began programming adaptive dance outreach with the studio, helped train high school interns, and educated other staff on ways to adapt the dance classroom and movement for other populations. Ben popped the big question on one knee and I said yes! He was offered a great job opportunity in Cleveland, and took it! More long-distance love (temporarily). Read more>>
DJ Sanderfer
I initially started designing clothes for myself. I would thrift garments that didn’t have any designs or character to them, and would create something out of them. People would ask me about the garment and in turn, request if I could make something for them. It started out just as a hobby and didn’t ask to be compensated, but people would still gift me in exchange for my time and creativity. I soon realized I could make something bigger out of my passion to give people confidence thought my form of art, so I began to design pieces from scratch and thus, my brand was created. I am now designing and mass producing garments with the intent to share my creations with people all over the world. Read more>>
Landon Shelpman
From the time I was three years old, my Dad would take me and my brother to a Diecast(Mostly Hot Wheels) show in Dayton, Ohio. This show was the mix of cool and unique items I would find every time mixed with vendors filling my bags with free cars as I passed. I am lucky enough that I never took my first car I bought out of the package and still have my 1994 Collector’s Choice Model “A” Hot Rod on my shelf today. As collectors, we know how much that first purchase means to us because it sets us on a journey like no other. Read more>>
Jess Nardelli
Honestly, you couldn’t pay me enough to pretend to like a place that I don’t. People look to content creators for honest opinions – there’s no sense in sending them just anywhere. Food is an art, and good food is something so special. When you can taste the love and effort that went into one single dish – it’s mind blowing. I’ve traveled all over the world finding the best eats including places such as Thailand, France, and Italy. And to be honest – the street food is some of the best! Life’s too short to eat bad food & I just hope to guide you all to some amazing spots! Read more>>
Tyson Davis
Now, I’m focused on working with models, building a strong fashion portfolio, and making the right industry connections. I’m open to traveling for work and, more than anything, I want to establish myself in the fashion scene in South Korea. The industry there is thriving, and I know it’s the perfect place to push my creative vision even further. Right now, I’m working on expanding my network, shooting more fashion-forward work, and positioning myself for bigger opportunities. Read more>>
Kyra Gates
This season we ran into that. We have 9 teams and also added a boys team. Next season we will be combining some teams and not bringing any one new inside unfortunately it was over kill this season. From the volleyball program and having only – senior team each year we have also been extremely successful in assisting young ladies in getting scholarships to play in college. More than 75 student athletes have benefited from this. This year we added a boys team and how to do the same for them. We did all this without sponshopship and only a few donations here and there. Read more>>
Marcus Waine
So I started making music and releasing it around 2019 via SoundCloud/Spotify, but my background started in vocal jazz/choir in middle school and high school. I started actually taking piano and production classes around the 5th grade and started studying guitar around the 8th grade. After high school, I went to college at Kent State and then continued at Berklee College of Music for music production. Since 2019 I’ve released 3 studio albums, and multiple ep’s and singles under the label .SINGLETON, which also doubles as my brand as well! Currently I’m working on a new album/character called .WINSTON. Since late 2024/early 2025, I’ve released 3 singles from the album which are quickly gaining traction on the independent scene since the start of this rollout. The album is also set for release later this year with the date still TBA, but we’re shooting for the summer. Read more>>
Wasfi Samaan
My family was always buying destressed businesses and real estate and turning them around. We operated 6 gas stations at one point, a car lot, mechanic shop and banquet hall. In 1998 we purchased a distressed bowling alley in Nicholasville Kentucky and renovated. We added a full restaurant and a vibrant entertainment complex that we called JD Legends. In 2002 we did the same thing in Franklin Ohio. We started do small scale music in 2004 and eventually booked our first National Act Digital Underground. The rest is history. Each year we did more and more national concerts. Read more>>
Karen Koch
Collage is a collaborative process, a conversation between me and the materials. I have to work with what already exists to put the pieces where they best fit. It’s a little like doing a jigsaw puzzle, except the picture on the box is missing and you have pieces from 97 different puzzles! Read More>>
Esperanza Green
I am learning a lot as I go on the business aspect of things. When I am working as a lash Artist and Esthetician, I am in my natural creative flow and it’s not even work. I absolutely love what I do! However, the business side can be pretty stressful. It does not come natural to me. I struggle with ADHD pretty bad and do not like taking the medication therefore this makes it even harder, As I continue to grow, I do want to eventually hire an accountant and possibly someone In social Media or marketing to take care of that part of the business for me. Read More>>
